Donald L. McNeil

Donald Linwood McNeil, peacefully entered eternal rest on Tuesday, March 24, 2026, at the age of 67. He was born on February 27, 1959, in McColl SC to Donnie and Elease McNeil.

Donald accepted Christ at an early age and remained a faithful servant of Christ throughout his life. His faith was a guiding light, reflected in the way he lived with humility, kindness, and a quiet strength that touched everyone who knew him.

He attended Marlboro and Scotland County Schools, where he became known for his basketball abilities. While his athletic talent was admired, he was most cherished for being a loving, humble, and peaceful man. Donald had a genuine heart for people, and his passion was helping and encouraging others in any way he could.

He found joy in life's simple pleasures, listening to music, enjoying sports, and spending meaningful time with family. Professionally, Donald was a dedicated tradesman who served faithfully at Winthrop College and Catawba Mental Health Services. His strong work ethic, reliability, and quiet consistency earned the respect of all who worked alongside him.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Elease Bethea Douglas, and his brothers, Ronald D. McNeil and Lawrence McNeil.

Donald leaves to cherish his memory his devoted wife of nineteen years, Demetria Chilsom McNeil; his father, Donne (Deloris) McNeil of Laurinburg, North Carolina; his sisters, Lisa McNeil of Rock Hill, South Carolina, and Katrina (Michael) Shaw of Gastonia, North Carolina; and his brothers, Charles (Melba) McNeil of Johns Creek, Georgia, Thomas (Sandra) McNeil of Rock Hill, South Carolina, and Don McNeil of Greensboro, North Carolina.

He is also survived by his father in law and mother in law, Daniel and Mae Frances Chilsom; his sister in law, Valerie (Gary) McMullen; his brothers in law, Tyshawn Chilsom and Daniel Chilsom Jr, his nephews, Brian McNeil, Derrick McNeil, Zadgery McNeil, Jeremy McNeil, Scottie McNeil, Quancy McNeil, Gary McMullen Jr, Brandon McMullen, and Logan McMullen; his nieces, Brittanie McNeil and Lorynn; and a host of grandnieces, grandnephews, cousins, and other loving relatives and friends.

Donald's life was a testimony of faith, love, and service. He leaves behind a legacy of compassion, encouragement, and quiet strength that will continue to inspire all who knew him. Though he has entered into eternal rest, his love and spirit will forever remain in the hearts of those who loved him.

A Graveside Service will be held on Wednesday, April 1, 2026 at 1:00 p.m. at Barber Memorial Cemetery, 1272 Soulsville Rd, Rock Hill, SC